Analysis system

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for analysing the condition of a machine having a rotating shaft, comprising: at least one input for receiving measurement data from a sensor for surveying a measuring point of the machine; said measurement data being dependent on rotation of said shaft; 
         data processing means for processing condition data dependent on said measurement data; said data processing means comprising means for performing a plurality of condition monitoring functions (F 1 , F 2 , Fn), wherein said data processing means includes a Field Programmable Gate Array circuit coupled to said at least one input.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for analysing thecondition of a machine, and to a system for analysing the condition of amachine. The invention also relates to method of operating such asystem.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

Machines with moving parts are subject to wear with the passage of time,which often causes the condition of the machine to deteriorate. Examplesof such machines with movable parts are motors, pumps, generators,compressors, lathes and CNC-machines. The movable parts may comprise ashaft and bearings.

In order to prevent machine failure, such machines should be subject tomaintenance, depending on the condition of the machine. Therefore theoperating condition of such a machine is preferably evaluated from timeto time. The operating condition can be determined by measuringvibrations emanating from a bearing or by measuring temperature on thecasing of the machine, which temperatures are dependent on the operatingcondition of the bearing. Such condition checks of machines withrotating or other moving parts are of great significance for safety andalso for the length of the life of such machines. It is known tomanually perform such measurements on machines. This ordinarily is doneby an operator with the help of a measuring instrument performingmeasurements at measuring points on one or several machines.

A number of commercial instruments are available, which rely on the factthat defects in rolling-element bearings generate short pulses, usuallycalled shock pulses. State of the art shock pulse measuring apparatusesmay include proprietary technology for generating a value indicative ofthe condition of a bearing or a machine.

WO 98/01831 discloses a machine having a measuring point and a shaftwith a certain shaft diameter, wherein the shaft can rotate when themachine is in use. WO 98/01831 also discloses an apparatus for analysingthe condition of a machine having a rotating shaft. The disclosedapparatus has a sensor for producing a measured value indicating thevibration or temperature at the measuring point. The apparatus disclosedin WO 98/01831 has a microprocessor and an analysis routine stored in amemory. According to WO 98/01831 the following process can be performedby running the analysis routine on the microprocessor:

-   -   producing the measured value;    -   acquiring interpretation information from an information carrier        which is mounted by the measuring point;    -   producing an actual condition value, indicating the actual        condition of the machine at the measuring point, dependent on        the measured value and the interpretation information;    -   acquiring a second condition value, indicating the condition of        the machine at measuring point at an earlier point of time, from        the information carrier;    -   producing a relation value dependent on the actual condition        value and the second condition value, which relation value        indicates a change in the condition.

SUMMARY

An aspect of the invention relates to the problem of providing aflexible high performance apparatus for analysing the condition ofmachines.

This problem is addressed by an apparatus for analysing the condition ofa machine having a rotating shaft, comprising:

-   -   at least one input for receiving measurement data from a sensor        for surveying a measuring point of the machine; said measurement        data being dependent on rotation of said shaft;    -   data processing means for processing condition data dependent on        said measurement data; said data processing means comprising        means for performing a plurality of condition monitoring        functions, wherein    -   said data processing means includes a Field Programmable Gate        Array circuit coupled to said at least one input.

The Field Programmable Gate Array circuit advantageously provides acombination of flexibility and very high performance to the analysisapparatus in that a large amount of data can be processed relativelyfast by means of the Field Programmable Gate Array circuit. Thissolution advantageously enables simultaneous execution of two, three ormore of the condition monitoring functions. Moreover, the functionsexecuted by the FPGA may be software controlled and the FPGA allows fortruly parallel processing, which also contributes to increasedperformance to the analysis apparatus.

The solution may also involve an apparatus for analysing the conditionof a machine having a rotating shaft, comprising:

-   -   at least one input for receiving measurement data from a sensor        for surveying a measuring point of the machine; said measurement        data being dependent on rotation of said shaft;    -   data processing means for processing condition data dependent on        said measurement data; said data processing means including a        Field Programmable Gate Array circuit coupled to said at least        one input for performing a plurality of condition monitoring        functions.

According to an embodiment said data processing means comprises at leasttwo data processing devices co-operating so as to control operation ofsaid condition analysis apparatus; a first one of said data processingdevices being said Field Programmable Gate Array circuit.

According to an embodiment a second one of said data processing devicesoperates to control the operation of the Field Programmable Gate Arraycircuit.

According to an embodiment the apparatus further comprises a pluralityof memory segments for storing program code; and

-   -   program code means, stored on at least one of said memory        segments, which when run on said Field Programmable Gate Array        circuit causes the condition analysis apparatus to execute a        condition monitoring function.

According to this embodiment the apparatus further comprises programcode means, stored on at least one of said memory segments, which whenrun on said second data processing device causes the second dataprocessing device to control the operation of the Field ProgrammableGate Array.

An aspect of the invention relates to the problem of providing equipmentfor analysing the condition of a machine satisfying the conflictingrequirements of reducing the price for a piece of condition monitoringequipment while maintaining profitability for the supplier of theanalysis system.

This problem is addressed by an apparatus for analysing the condition ofa machine, comprising an apparatus for analysing the condition of amachine, comprising:

-   -   at least one input for receiving measurement data from a sensor        for surveying a measuring point of the machine;    -   data processing means for processing condition data dependent on        said measurement data; said data processing means comprising        means for performing a plurality of condition monitoring        functions; and    -   a logger for registering use of at least one of said condition        monitoring functions.

This advantageously enables charging a cost for use of the apparatus.

An embodiment of the apparatus comprising:

-   -   a communication port; wherein    -   said apparatus is adapted to be capable of delivering data        indicative of said registered use on said communication port.

This advantageously enables delivery of use info to a supplier, forcharging a cost. i.e. reporting the amount of use to the supplier.

An embodiment of the apparatus further comprises:

-   -   means for comparing said registered use with a first reference        value,    -   means for disabling said data processing means or at least one        of said condition monitoring functions in response to the        outcome of said comparison.

This solution encourages a user to buy additional usage so as tomaintain operability of desired functions of the analysis apparatus.Such additional usage may be in the form of a number of measurementsusing a desired function, or a period of time the duration of which isdefined by the registered use and the first reference value.

An embodiment of the apparatus further comprises: key reception meansadapted to allow further use of said data processing means in responseto reception of a first key.

This advantageously enables a supplier to amend the relation between aregistered use value and the reference value. Thereby it is possible toincrease “the stored amount of use” available before the data processingmeans is disabled.

An embodiment of the apparatus further comprises:

key reception means adapted to allow further use of a selected one ofsaid condition monitoring functions in response to reception of a keyassociated with said selected function.

This advantageously enables a supplier to amend the relation between thereference value and a registered use value for a selected function.Thereby it is possible to increase “the stored amount of use” availablebefore the selected function is disabled.

An embodiment of the apparatus further comprises:

-   -   means for reading a current value of said registered use;    -   means for comparing said current value with a second reference        value;    -   means for registering use at a first rate when said current        value is above the second reference value; and    -   means for registering use at a second rate when said current        value is below the second reference value.

This advantageously enables a supplier to sell usage at different costs.When, according to one embodiment, a user has paid for a certain amountA_(p) of usage, the second reference value is a level indicating thatthe whole amount A_(p) of usage has been spent. This means that anyfurther use will be usage which has not yet been paid for. By thefeature of registering such further use at a second rate it is possibleto charge a higher cost per unit of usage for such further use.

An embodiment of the apparatus wherein:

-   -   at least some of said plurality of condition monitoring        functions is at least partly embodied by computer program code.

An aspect of the invention relates to the problem of achieving acost-effective improvement of the length of life of machines with amoving part.

An aspect of the invention relates to the problem of achieving ananalysis apparatus for evaluating the condition of a machine,

This problem is addressed by

An apparatus for monitoring the condition of a machine, comprising:

-   -   at least one input for receiving measurement data from a sensor        for surveying a measuring point of the machine;    -   data processing means for processing condition data dependent on        said measurement data; said data processing means comprising        means for performing at least two condition monitoring        functions;    -   at least one of said plurality of condition monitoring functions        having a locked state and an unlocked state; said locked state        prohibiting complete execution of said condition monitoring        function; and said unlocked state allowing execution;    -   means for changing the state of a selected condition monitoring        function between the locked state and the unlocked state.

This advantageously provides the analysis apparatus with an improvedversatility. A manufacturer can manufacture the apparatus in a singlefashion, and a supplier can sell the apparatus in several versions. Moreprecisely, an apparatus having two individually lockable/unlockablefunctions can be provided in the following versions:

-   -   with only the first function unlocked;    -   with only the second function unlocked;    -   with the first function and the second function unlocked.

Hence, a supplier can offer the apparatus in three versions, and thisallows for selling it at different price levels dependent on thefunctionality included. Each client is therefore provided with a choiceas to which functions to choose.

An embodiment of the apparatus further comprises:

-   -   key reception means adapted to allow use of a selected one of        said condition monitoring functions in response to reception of        a key associated with said selected function;    -   a logger for registering use of at least one of said condition        monitoring functions.    -   means for comparing said registered use with a first reference        value,    -   means for disabling said data processing means or at least one        of said condition monitoring functions in response to the        outcome of said comparison.

Hence, A manufacturer can manufacture the apparatus in a single fashion,and a supplier can sell the apparatus in more than four versions:

-   -   with only the first function unlocked;    -   with only the second function unlocked;    -   with the first function and the second function unlocked.    -   with both functions locked but each function individually or        collectively unlockable for a limited amount of use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For simple understanding of the present invention, it will be describedby means of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, ofwhich:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a conditionanalyzing system according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a part of thecondition analyzing system 2 shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a simplified illustration of an embodiment of a memory and itscontents.

FIG. 4 is a simplified illustration of a second embodiment of the memoryand its contents.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of aprocedure according to the invention.

FIG. 5C is a simplified illustration of a principle of an embodiment ofan account value or amount of usage parameter.

FIG. 5D is an illustration of a principle of an embodiment wherein thecost per use changes after a certain level of use has been attained.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a procedureaccording to the invention.

FIG. 7 is a physical embodiment of an apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 illustrates the apparatus, shown in FIG. 7, being gripped by ahand 140 of a user.

FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the apparatus, illustratingthe physical dimensions thereof.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the apparatus shown inFIG. 1 and/or FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 13A illustrates a part of memory 60 comprising a function F_(k) andan associated status field 142.

FIG. 13B illustrates a part of memory 60 according to an embodiment,comprising a function F_(k) and an associated status field 142 _(k).FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a procedure fordelivering an apparatus, and for adding use or functionality to theapparatus by means of a key from the supplier.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of acondition analyzing system 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following description similar features in different embodimentsmay be indicated by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a conditionanalyzing system 2 according to an embodiment of the invention.Reference numeral 4 relates to a client location with a machine 6 havinga movable part 8. The movable part may comprise bearings 7 and a shaft 8which, when the machine is in operation, rotates. The operatingcondition of the shaft 8 or of a bearing 7 can be determined in responseto vibrations emanating from the shaft and/or bearing when the shaftrotates. Additionally the operating condition of a bearing 7 can bedetermined in response to temperature measured on the casing of themachine. The client location 4, which may also be referred to as clientpart or user part, may for example be the premises of a paper millplant, or some other manufacturing plant having machines with movableparts.

An embodiment of the condition analyzing system 2 is operative when asensor 10 is firmly attached on or at a measuring point 12 on the bodyof the machine 6. Although FIG. 1 only illustrates two measuring points12, it to be understood that a location 4 may comprise any number ofmeasuring points 12. The condition analysis system 2 shown in FIG. 1,comprises an analysis apparatus 14 for analysing the condition of amachine on the basis of measurement values delivered by the sensor 10.

The analysis apparatus 14 has a communication port 16 for bi-directionaldata exchange. The communication port 16 is connectable to acommunications network 18, e.g. via a data interface 19. Thecommunications network 18 may be the world wide internet, also known asthe Internet. The communications network 18 may also comprise a publicswitched telephone network.

A server computer 20 is connected to the communications network 18. Theserver 20 may comprise a database 22, user input/output interfaces 24and data processing hardware 26, and a communications port 29. Theserver computer 20 is located on a location 28, which is geographicallyseparate from the client location 4. The server location 28 may be in afirst city, such as the Swedish capital Stockholm, and the clientlocation may be in another city, such as Stuttgart, Germany or Detroitin Michigan, USA. Alternatively, the server location 28 may be in afirst part of a town and the client location may be in another part ofthe same town. The server location 28 may also be referred to assupplier part 28, or supplier part location 28. A supplier company whomay sell and deliver analysis apparatuses 14 occupies the supplier partlocation 28. The supplier company may also distribute use allowance toanalysis apparatuses 14 having use restricted condition monitoringfunctions, as discussed in further detail elsewhere in this document.

According to one embodiment of the system 2 the apparatus 14 is aportable apparatus which may be connected to the communications network18 from time to time.

According to another embodiment of the system 2 the apparatus 14 isconnected to the communications network 18 substantially continuously.Hence, the system 2 according to this embodiment may substantiallyalways be “on line” available for communication with the suppliercomputer 20.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a part of thecondition analyzing system 2 shown in FIG. 1. The condition analyzingsystem, as illustrated in FIG. 2, comprises a sensor unit 10 forproducing a measured value. The measured value may be dependent onmovement or, more precisely, dependent on vibrations. Alternatively themeasured value may be dependent on temperature.

An embodiment of the condition analyzing system 2 is operative when adevice 30 is firmly mounted on or at a measuring point on a machine 6.The device 30 mounted at the measuring point may be referred to as astud 30. A stud 30 can comprise a connection coupling 32 to which thesensor unit 10 is removably attachable. The connection coupling 32 can,for example comprise double start threads for enabling the sensor unitto be mechanically engaged with the stud by means of a ¼ turn rotation.

A measuring point 12 can comprise a threaded recess in the casing of themachine. A stud 30 may have a protruding part with threads correspondingto those of the recess for enabling the stud to be firmly attached tothe measuring point by introduction into the recess like a bolt.

Alternatively, a measuring point can comprise a threaded recess in thecasing of the machine, and the sensor unit 10 may comprise correspondingthreads so that it can be directly introduced into the recess.Alternatively, the measuring point is marked on the casing of themachine only with a painted mark.

The machine 6 exemplified in FIG. 2 may have a rotating shaft with acertain shaft diameter d1. The shaft in the machine 24 may rotate at acertain speed of rotation V1 when the machine 6 is in use.

The sensor unit 10 may be coupled to the apparatus 14 for analysing thecondition of a machine. The analysis apparatus 14 comprises a sensorinterface 40 for receiving a measured signal or measurement data,produced by the sensor 10. The sensor interface 40 is coupled to a dataprocessing means 50 capable of controlling the operation of the analysisapparatus 14 in accordance with program code. The data processing means50 is also coupled to a memory 60 for storing said program code.

According to an embodiment of the invention the sensor interface 40comprises an input 42 for receiving an analog signal, the input 42 beingconnected to an analogue-to-digital (A/D) converter 44, the digitaloutput of which is coupled to the to the data processing means 50.

The program memory 60 is preferably a non-volatile memory. The memory 60may be a read/write memory, i.e. enabling both reading data from thememory and writing new data onto the memory 60. According to anembodiment the program memory 60 is embodied by a FLASH memory. Theprogram memory 60 may comprise a first memory segment 70 for storing afirst set of program code 80 which is executable so as to control theanalysis apparatus 14 to perform basic operations (FIG. 2 and FIG. 3).The program memory may also comprise a second memory segment 90 forstoring a second set of program code 100.

According to some embodiments of the invention the second set of programcode is initially disabled so as to prohibit execution of said secondset of program code. The disabled data 100 may be enabled in response toreception of a key.

According to an embodiment of the invention the apparatus 14 comprisesan interface means for receiving the key.

The data processing means 50 is also coupled to a read/write memory 52for data storage. Moreover, the data processing means 50 may be coupledto an analysis apparatus communications interface 54. The analysisapparatus communications interface 54 provides for bi-directionalcommunication with a measuring point communication interface 56 which isattachable on, at or in the vicinity of the measuring point on themachine.

The measuring point 12 comprises a connection coupling 32, a readableand writeable information carrier 58, and a measuring pointcommunication interface 56.

The writeable information carrier 58, and the measuring pointcommunication interface 56 may be provided in a separate device 59placed in the vicinity of the stud 30, as illustrated in FIG. 2.Alternatively the writeable information carrier 58, and the measuringpoint communication interface 56 may be provided within the stud 30.This is described in more detail in WO 98/01831, the content of which ishereby incorporated by reference.

The sensor unit 10 comprises a vibration transducer, the sensor unitbeing structured to physically engage the connection coupling of themeasuring point so that vibrations of the machine at the measuring pointare transferred to the vibration transducer.

The analysis apparatus 14 comprises an analog-to-digital converter 44electrically connected to receive an output delivered by the sensor unit10, a microprocessor 50 electrically connected to receive an output ofthe analog-to-digital converter, and an analysis apparatus communicationinterface 54 connected to the microprocessor.

The system 2 is arranged to allow bidirectional communication betweenthe measuring point communication interface 56 and the analysisapparatus communication interface 54. The measuring point communicationinterface 56 and the analysis apparatus communication interface 54 arepreferably constructed to allow wireless communication. According to anembodiment the measuring point communication interface and the analysisapparatus communication interface are constructed to communicate withone another by radio frequency (RF) signals. This embodiment includes anantenna in the measuring point communication interface 56 and anotherantenna the analysis apparatus communication interface 54.

Embodiments of the measuring point 12 and the communications interfaces54/56 are described in more detail in WO 98/01831, the content of whichis hereby incorporated by reference.

FIG. 3 is a simplified illustration of an embodiment of the memory 60and its contents. The simplified illustration is intended to conveyunderstanding of the general idea of storing different program functionsin memory 60, and it is not necessarily a correct technical teaching ofthe way in which a program would be stored in a real memory circuit. Thefirst memory segment 70 stores program code for controlling the analysisapparatus 14 to perform basic operations. Although the simplifiedillustration of FIG. 3 shows pseudo code, it is to be understood thatthe program code 80 may be constituted by machine code, or any levelprogram code that can be executed or interpreted by the data processingmeans 50 (FIG. 2).

The second memory segment 90, illustrated in FIG. 3, stores a second setof program code 100. The program code in segment 90, when run on thedata processing means 50, will cause the analysis apparatus 14 toperform an added function. The added function may comprise an advancedmathematical processing of a measured signal received via the sensorinterface 40. The added function, however, will be enabled and availableonly if the corresponding key or keyword has been entered.

A Keyword Embodiment

According to an embodiment of the analysis apparatus 14 (FIG. 2), theinterface means comprises a user input interface 102, whereby anoperator may introduce the key in the form of a code word, also referredto as keyword. According to this embodiment the first set of programcode 80 in the apparatus 14 comprises a program routine for requesting acode word, and for determining whether a received code word is accepted.According to an embodiment the user input interface 102 comprises a setof buttons 104. An embodiment of the analysis apparatus 14 comprises auser output interface 106. The user output interface may comprise adisplay unit 106. The data processing means 50, when it runs a basicprogram function provided in the basic program code 80, provides foruser interaction by means of the user input interface 102 and thedisplay unit 106. The set of buttons 104 may be limited to a fewbuttons, such as for example five buttons, as illustrated in FIG. 2, ornine buttons as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9. A central button 107 maybe used for an ENTER or SELECT function, whereas other, more peripheralbuttons may be used for moving a cursor on the display 106. In thismanner it is to be understood that symbols and text, such as the abovementioned code word, may be entered into the apparatus 14 via the userinterface. The display unit 106 may, for example, display a number ofsymbols, such as the letters of alphabet, while the cursor is movable onthe display in response to user input so as to allow the user to input acode word and/or other information. Hence, a key for enabling a disabledcondition monitoring function, and/or for adding an amount of usageallowance to a use restricted condition monitoring function may beentered via the user interface 102, 106 in an advantageously userfriendly manner.

The enabled, executable version 110 of the second set of program code100 may comprise an analysis routine for processing measured signals ormeasurement data received on the input 40 from the sensor 10.

According to an embodiment of the invention the second set of programcode 100 is disabled by means of encryption. Hence, according to thisembodiment the second set of program code 100 is an encrypted set ofdata 100. The encrypted data 100 is decryptable. Decryption may beachieved by means of a decryption program routine, provided that acorrect decryption key, e.g. in the form of a data word, is received.The decryption routine may be comprised in one of the basic functions80, illustrated in FIG. 3.

In the course of decrypting an encrypted set of data 100, the decrypteddata 110 may be stored at a third memory location 112. When decrypted,the second set of program code is an executable version 110 of thesecond set of program code 100. Hence, the memory location 90 may storea disabled version of computer program code and, provided a correct keyhas been entered, the memory location 112 will provide access to anenabled version of that computer program code.

Although, in the above, enabling of program functions has been describedin detail only for a single program function, it to be understood that alarge number of analysis functions may be provided in a disabled statein the analysis apparatus 14. The number of disabled program functionsstored by the apparatus 14 may be in the range from one to twenty-five,or even more. This advantageously leads to a wide selection offunctions, and the apparatus 14 may be sold at a competitive andrelatively low price in a version where only one or a few of the programfunctions are enabled. According to a preferred embodiment an enabledprogram function remains enabled for a limited amount of use such thatwhen the limited amount of use has been consumed, the program functionwill automatically become disabled again. An additional amount of use ofthe program function can be added by means of a dedicated usage enablingprocedure. Execution of the dedicated usage enabling procedure mayrequire clearance by the distributor. This embodiment of the inventionadvantageously makes it possible to provide, on the market at acompetitively low price, a condition analysis system comprising a widevariety of program functions so that users may obtain a very versatileinstrument at low initial cost. The user may instead pay a certainamount of money for obtaining an additional amount of use of a selectedprogram function.

According to an embodiment of the invention the apparatus 14 stores atleast five different disabled program functions, when the apparatus isready to be delivered to a customer. According to another embodiment theapparatus 14 stores at least fifteen different disabled programfunctions upon delivery to a customer. According to some embodiments atleast two of the initially disabled program functions are, when enabled,for generating indications of the condition of a machine in response tomeasured vibrations. According to preferred embodiments at least half ofthe initially disabled program functions are, when enabled, forgenerating indications of the condition of a machine in response tomeasured vibrations.

Each one of the disabled functions can be individually enabled independence of a key. According to some embodiments of the invention eachfunction is individually enabled dependent on a unique key word.According to an embodiment a group of program functions can be enabledin dependence of one single keyword.

A Mechanical Key Embodiment

According to another embodiment the interface means in the apparatus 14comprises a receptor for receiving a mechanical key (not shown).According to this embodiment an operator may introduce the key in theform of a mechanical key for the purpose of enabling an additionalanalysis apparatus function. The receptor for receiving a key maycomprise contact means operating to enable the disabled data 100 onreception of the corresponding correct key. According to one version ofthis embodiment the correct mechanical key may be rotated to cause acontact device to close an electric contact coupled to the memory 60,thereby enabling the reading of a range of memory addresses. Followingsuch a procedure, the data processing means 50 is capable of reading andexecuting the second set of program code 100 which is stored on saidsecond memory segment 90, i.e. on said range of memory addresses.

A Procedure and a System Providing Tailored Functionality for Evaluatingthe Condition of a Machine

Analysis of a machine's vibration signature is valuable for reducingunscheduled down time, reducing downtime for repair, minimizing periodicdisassembly of a machine for inspection and greatly reducing theprobability of catastrophic and unexpected machine failure.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a manufacturer ofcondition monitoring systems may provide customers with a veryversatile, yet non-expensive analysis apparatus 14. The analysisapparatus 14 according to this embodiment allows for “tailored” outfitof Machine Condition Monitoring functions (MCM functions), in accordancewith the individual preference of each customer. Potential customers ofcondition monitoring apparatus range from maintenance personnel—spendingall their professional time analysing the condition of machines with theuse of advanced analysis functions—to workshop personnel with a need tomake an occasional control of a few machines.

The workshop personnel usually require only a few basic monitoringfunctions for detection of whether the condition of a machine is normalor abnormal. On detecting an abnormal condition, the workshop personnelmay call for professional maintenance personnel to establish the exactnature of the problem, and for performing the necessary maintenancework. The professional maintenance personnel frequently needs and uses abroad range of evaluation functions making it possible to establish thenature of, and/or cause for, an abnormal machine condition. Hence,different users of an analysis apparatus 14 may pose very differentdemands on the function of the apparatus.

In order to satisfy this broad range of demands, an embodiment of thepresent condition analysis system advantageously includes an apparatus14 having a plurality of disabled Machine Condition Monitoringfunctions, each one of which may be enabled and activated on demand.Such an apparatus 14 for monitoring the condition of a machine cancomprise:

-   -   at least one input 42 for receiving measurement data from a        sensor 10 for surveying a measuring point 12 of the machine; and    -   data processing means 50 for processing condition data dependent        on said measurement data; said data processing means comprising        means for performing at least two condition monitoring functions        F1, F2. At least one of said plurality of condition monitoring        functions F1, F2 has a locked state and an unlocked state; said        locked state prohibiting complete execution of said condition        monitoring function; and said unlocked state allowing execution        of said condition monitoring function. The apparatus 14 also        comprises means 141 (FIG. 4) for changing the state of a        selected condition monitoring function F1, F2 between the locked        state and the unlocked state.

This solution advantageously provides the analysis apparatus with animproved versatility. A manufacturer can manufacture the apparatus in asingle fashion, and a supplier can sell the apparatus in severalversions. More precisely, an apparatus having two individuallylockable/unlockable functions can be provided in the following versions:

-   -   with only the first function F1 unlocked;    -   with only the second function F2 unlocked;    -   with the first function F1 and the second function F2 unlocked.

Hence, a supplier can offer the apparatus in three versions, and thisallows for selling it at different price levels dependent on thefunctionality included. Each client is therefore provided with a choiceas to which functions to choose.

The data processing means may comprise a large number of locked ordisabled functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn, where n is a positive integer.Each one of the functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn may be individuallyenabled/unlocked or disabled/locked.

FIG. 4 is a simplified illustration of a second embodiment of the memory60 and its contents. As described above, the first memory segment 70stores program code for controlling the analysis apparatus 14 to performbasic operations.

The second memory segment 90, illustrated in FIG. 4, stores a second setof program code 100. The program code in segment 90, when run on thedata processing means 50, will cause the analysis apparatus 14 toperform a first Machine Condition Monitoring function (MCM function) F1.

The memory 60 may also include a third memory segment 120, asillustrated in FIG. 4, storing a third set of program code 130. Theprogram code in segment 120, when run on the data processing means 50,will cause the analysis apparatus 14 to perform a second MachineCondition Monitoring function F2.

The memory 60 may comprise a large number of functions F1, F2, F3 . . .Fn, where n is a positive integer. Each one of the functions F1, F2, F3. . . Fn may be individually enabled/unlocked or disabled/locked asdescribed elsewhere in this document.

Once a function F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn has been enabled it may beindividually activated on demand, e.g. by an operator, so that theprogram function causes the analysis apparatus to perform the tasksprescribed by the computer program function. The functions F1 and F2have been described in FIG. 4 as being stored on separate memorylocations, for the purpose of simplifying the understanding of thisembodiment of the invention. It is, however, to be understood that thefunctions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn may be stored in other manners.

Additionally, one function F1, where i is a integer in the range 1 . . .n, may use some, or all, of the program code for another function Fj,where j is an integer in the range 1 . . . n. This means that onefunction Fi may use another function Fj as a sort of subroutine.

Examples of Machine Condition Monitoring Functions

The condition monitoring functions F1, F2 . . . Fn includes functionssuch as: vibration analysis, temperature analysis, shock pulsemeasuring, spectrum analysis of shock pulse measurement data, FastFourier Transformation of vibration measurement data, graphicalpresentation of condition data on a user interface, storage of conditiondata in a writeable information carrier on said machine, storage ofcondition data in a writeable information carrier in said apparatus,tachometering, imbalance detection, and misalignment detection.

According to an embodiment the apparatus 14 includes the followingfunctions:

F1=vibration analysis;

F2=temperature analysis,

F3=shock pulse measuring,

F4=spectrum analysis of shock pulse measurement data,

F5=Fast Fourier Transformation of vibration measurement data,

F6=graphical presentation of condition data on a user interface,

F7=storage of condition data in a writeable information carrier on saidmachine,

F8=storage of condition data in a writeable information carrier 52 insaid apparatus,

F9=tachometering,

F10=imbalance detection, and

F11=misalignment detection.

F12=Retrieval of condition data from a writeable information carrier 58on said machine.

F13=Performing vibration analysis function F1 and performing functionF12 “Retrieval of condition data from a writeable information carrier 58on said machine” so as to enable a comparison or trending based oncurrent vibration measurement data and historical vibration measurementdata.

F14=Performing temperature analysis F2; and performing function“Retrieval of condition data from a writeable information carrier 58 onsaid machine” so as to enable a comparison or trending based on currenttemperature measurement data and historical temperature measurementdata.

F15=Retrieval of identification data from a writeable informationcarrier 58 on said machine.

Embodiments of the function F7 “storage of condition data in a writeableinformation carrier on said machine”, and F13 vibration analysis andretrieval of condition data is described in more detail in WO 98/01831,the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The vibration analysis function F1 and shock pulse measuring F3 for theevaluation of the condition of a machine may comprise the step ofobtaining a condition value by performing a measurement at the measuringpoint, such that the condition value is dependent on the actualcondition of the machine. According to embodiments, the routines F1 andF3 may comprise the step of the microprocessor 50 requesting measuredvalues from the sensor unit 10 (FIG. 2). According to one embodiment ofthe invention the sensor unit comprises a transducer having apiezo-electric element. When the measuring point 12 vibrates, the sensorunit 10, or at least a part of it, also vibrates and the transducer thenproduces an electrical signal of which the frequency and amplitudedepend on the mechanical vibration frequency and the vibration amplitudeof the measuring point 12, respectively. The electrical signal isdelivered to the analog-to-digital converter 44, which with a certainsampling frequency fs converts the analog signal to consecutive digitalwords in a known way. The microcomputer 50 stores a series of digitalwords, which correspond to a time sequence of the electrical signal inthe memory 60, and then performs an analysis of the signal sequence,whereby the frequency and amplitude of the signal may be determined.Consequently, a measured value for the vibration amplitude Av and thevibration frequency fv may be determined.

According to an embodiment of the above mentioned function F7 “storageof condition data in a writeable information carrier on said machine”,one or both of the values vibration amplitude Av and/or vibrationfrequency fv are delivered to the communications interface 54 (FIG. 2).The microcomputer 50, delivers data to the communications interface 54for the purpose of transmitting such data to the readable and writeableinformation carrier 58. This may be achieved by means of thecommunications interfaces 54 and 56, as described above in connectionwith FIG. 2.

The above mentioned function F12 “Retrieval of condition data from awriteable information carrier 58 on said machine” comprises: acquiring avalue indicating the condition of the machine at an earlier point oftime from an information carrier 58 which is placed on, at or in thevicinity of the measuring point 12.

The above mentioned function F13 includes a combination of the abovedescribed functions F1 and F12. Hence function F13 includes “Performingvibration analysis” and performing “Retrieval of condition data from awriteable information carrier 58 on said machine” so as to enable acomparison or trending based on current vibration measurement data andhistorical vibration measurement data. An embodiment of function F13comprises the steps of:

-   -   producing an actual condition value, said value being dependent        on the actual condition at the measuring point, and    -   acquiring a stored value, indicating the condition of the        machine at an earlier point of time from an information carrier        58 which is placed on the machine 6.

The function F13 may also include presentation of the actual conditionvalue and the stored value on the display 106 for indication of changes.Also, a plurality of stored condition values may be acquired, whereineach condition value is associated with a time and/or date so thattrends may be presented on the display.

When the apparatus 14 executes the function F15 “Retrieval ofidentification data from a writeable information carrier 58 on saidmachine” it obtains information indicative of the current machine andthe current measuring point. Such identification data may be used forstorage and retrieval of data in a data base in the memory 52. Such adata base may include stored condition values wherein each conditionvalue is associated with a time and/or date. The retrievedidentification data may be used for fetching the relevant previouslystored data relating to the current measuring point.

An embodiment of the function F15 “Retrieval of identification data froma writeable information carrier 58 on said machine” may include the dataprocessor 50 retrieving interpretation information relating to themeasuring point. The interpretation information may include technicaltype values such as a diameter value d1 and a rotational speed value V1relating to a rotating shaft in the machine.

An embodiment of the function F12 “Retrieval of condition data from awriteable information carrier 58 on said machine” also includesretrieving interpretation information relating to the measuring point.With knowledge of the interpretation information d1 and V1,respectively, a measured vibration can be converted to an actualcondition value Ka. A predetermined interpretation algorithm is storedin the memory 60, and starting from an amplitude value Av andinterpretation information, such as d1 and V1, the micro-computerproduces a corresponding condition value Ka dependent thereon. Such aninterpretation algorithm is based on an embodiment of a method forproducing a condition value described in the Swedish Laid-Open Document339 576.

According to one embodiment, the interpretation algorithm is based onthe machine classification standard ISO 2954.

According to preferred embodiments the apparatus 14 does not have anyfunction for establishing whether steam leaks or not from a steam trap.

According to an embodiment of the invention the apparatus 14 includes afunction for statically aligning a first shaft with a second shaft.According to an embodiment a function F16 for aligning a first shaftwith a second shaft can be performed by connecting a first dual-axisposition sensing detector providing a first signal and a seconddual-axis position sensing detector providing a second signal to port 16of the analysis apparatus (FIG. 2, FIG. 12). When executing the functionF16 for aligning shafts, the user interface 106 of apparatus 14 operatesto provide readout means having defined alignment conditions and beingresponsive to the first signal and the second signal for visuallydisplaying shaft alignment, whereby with adjustment of the first shaftwith respect to the second shaft, alignment of the first shaft with thesecond shaft will be indicated on the readout means according to thedefined alignment conditions. In order to perform the alignment functionan alignment detection device comprising the first dual-axis positionsensing detector for generating the first signal and the seconddual-axis position sensing detector for generating the second signal isconnected to port 16. The alignment detection device also comprisesfirst mount means for mounting the first dual-axis position sensingdetector to the first shaft;

second mount means for mounting the second dual-axis position sensingdetector to the second shaft;

a first alignment radiation source mounted on the first mount means andoriented to provide a first alignment radiation beam to the seconddual-axis position sensing detector to generate the second signal; and

a second alignment radiation source mounted on the second mount meansand oriented to provide a second alignment radiation beam to the firstdual-axis position sensing detector to generate the first signal.According to an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus 14, whenexecuting the alignment function in co-operation with the alignmentdetection device, operates as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,518,855, thecontent of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

According to an embodiment of the invention the apparatus 14 alsoincludes a function F17 for balancing a rotating shaft. Also a device tobe balanced can be attached to an already balanced shaft of a machine,and thereafter the apparatus 14, when executing the function F17 forbalancing, will operate to provide information about the position andweight of the balancing weight(s) needed to counteract an imbalance ofthe rotating device. The apparatus 14, when executing a version of thefunction F17 for balancing, will operate to provide information aboutweight to be removed from the device-to-be-balanced in order tocounteract an imbalance and information about the position where thatweight needs to be removed. Removal of weight can be achieved, e.g. bydrilling.

A Usage Debiting/Crediting Procedure

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a procedureaccording to the invention. An operator planning to perform a round ofmeasurements may first consider what type of measurements and analysisis to be done, i.e. what type of Machine Condition Monitoring functionis required. The choice of Machine Condition Monitoring function dependson the type of machinery to be inspected, and on how advanced anevaluation the operator intends to achieve, as described above.

A user help function, provided among the basic functions 80 in the firstmemory segment 70, can be activated by the operator to provideinformation about the purpose of any individual function F1-Fn. This canadvantageously contribute to a stepwise increase of the competence ofthe operator, since the operator may start using relatively simple MCMfunctions and then, being informed by the user help function, theoperator may choose to proceed to using more advanced functions.

Once the operator has decided that he will need to enable a presentlydisabled function from the group consisting of functions F1-Fn theoperator may activate the Usage Debiting/Crediting Routine 132 (FIG. 4).The Usage Debiting/Crediting Routine 132 can also be used for changingthe value of a level parameter. The value of the level parameter decidesthe extent to which the analysis apparatus 14 may be used, as describedin further detail below.

The Usage Debiting/Crediting Routine 132 (FIG. 4) is one of the basicfunctions 80 in the first memory segment 70, which is described inconnection with FIG. 4 above.

By means of the user interface 102,106 (FIG. 2) the operator canactivate the Usage Debiting/Crediting Routine, as illustrated by stepS110 in FIG. 5.

In step S120 (FIG. 5), the Usage Debiting/Crediting Routine 132 causesthe apparatus 14 to display a list of the available functions, e.g. viathe user interface 102/106 (FIG. 2). This may include a listing of aplurality of different functions and an indication about status for eachindividual function. According to a preferred embodiment the statusinformation indicates for each function whether it is disabled orenabled. For the enabled functions the status information may alsoinclude information about the remaining amount of use for the associatedfunction. The remaining amount of use for the associated function isindicated by variables Use_F1 and Use_F2, respectively, for thefunctions illustrated in FIG. 4. As illustrated in FIG. 4, there may bea status field 142 associated with each function F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn,the status field 142 comprising information about whether it is disabledor enabled and, when enabled, information about the remaining amount ofuse for the associated function. According to this embodiment the levelparameter may be a counter value, herein referred to as “Use_F_(k)”,where k is an integer indicating the association with the correspondingfunction F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn. Hence, function F1 is associated withlevel parameter “Use_F₁”, and function F2 is associated with levelparameter “Use_F₂” etc.

In step S130 the operator selects to buy more usage of a function. Inresponse thereto a request for an additional amount of usage isgenerated (S140).

According to an embodiment the request includes information identifyingthe function whose usage is to be increased, and payment information.The payment information identifies a person responsible for paying thecost of the requested usage or, alternatively the payment informationcan in itself effect payment. The payment information may include datasuch as a credit card number. According to another embodiment thepayment information may include information indicating that payment hasalready been effected.

According to an embodiment, the above mentioned request includesinformation identifying the individual analysis apparatus, and thefunction whose usage is to be increased, and payment information.

The request is delivered to the premises 28 of a supplier (S150).According to an embodiment the request is delivered by means of thecommunications network 18 (FIG. 1). Hence, request may be delivered fromthe apparatus 14 to the server computer 20, e.g. via data communication.

At the supplier premises 28 the request is processed (S160), theprocessing including a verification step for establishing whether therequest is to be granted or not. The verification may, for example,include an evaluation of the payment information to decide whether thepayment information satisfies certain predetermined payment criteria.According to a preferred embodiment the request is processedautomatically by the server computer 20.

According to an embodiment this payment information evaluation includesa step of checking whether the payment information indicates thatpayment has already been effected, or whether it merely indicates aperson responsible for paying the cost. If the payment informationmerely indicates a person responsible for paying the cost, the servercomputer 20 may proceed to check with a dedicated database forestablishing whether clearance may be given for this person. Thededicated database may include information about the financial situationfor the person responsible for paying the cost. According to oneembodiment, the server computer limits this clearance check to averification using data in the database 22 internal to the premises ofthe supplier 28. According to another embodiment the payment evaluationincludes a communication with a financial services database.

Step S170 illustrates that if step S160 results in the request beinggranted, the supplier will deliver a key to the client (S180). If, onthe other hand, the request is not granted, the supplier computer 20will generate a Request_denied-message. The Request_denied-message maybe delivered to a supplier sales person (not shown) for the purpose ofalerting the supplier about a failed attempt buy function usage.According to an embodiment, a Request_denied-message is also sent toclient part 4 (See FIG. 1) for causing the apparatus 14 to displayinformation to the effect that the request was denied. TheRequest_denied-message may include information indicative of the reasonfor denial of the request, as well as a copy of the original requestmessage, as described in step S140 above.

In step S190 the key is received in the apparatus. The reception of akey may be achieved via the user interface 102,104,106, 182 (See FIGS.2, 7, 9, 12 and 15). Alternatively the key may be received via port 16.

After reception, there is a verification procedure S200 for ascertainingthe validity of the key. The result of the verification procedure S200is an acceptance or a discarding of the key. If the key is not accepted,the apparatus will provide a non-acceptance indication by means of theuser interface 106 (Step S210).

If the key is accepted the apparatus 14 will, in response to the key,amend (step S220) a level parameter “Use_F_(k)” to change an amount ofusage status and/or the enabled/disabled parameter 143 for the selectedfunction.

According to an embodiment, the key is associated with the selectedfunction so that, when correctly applied to the apparatus 14, the keywill increase the allowed amount of usage of that function. In otherwords, the key may cause a level parameter associated with the selectedfunction to be amended. The level parameter associated with a selectedfunction is a parameter whose purpose is to indicate how much theapparatus 14 may execute the selected function.

With reference to FIG. 4, an embodiment of the invention involving alevel parameter is described. According to this embodiment the levelparameter may be a counter value, herein referred to as “Use_F_(k)”,where k is an integer indicating the association with the correspondingfunction F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn. Hence, function F1 is associated withlevel parameter “Use_F₁”, and function F2 is associated with levelparameter “Use_F₂” etc. According to this embodiment, the key willinclude a first data portion for associating the key with thecorresponding function F1, F2 or F3 etc; and a second data portion forindicating the amount of use purchased.

After execution of step S220, the user interface of the apparatus willpresent information (step S230) for the purpose of allowing the operatorto select a next operation to be executed. This includes selectingbetween e.g. starting a measurement, returning to step S110 forrepeating the above procedure, or turning off the apparatus 14.

Example 1

FIG. 5C is a simplified illustration of a principle of an embodiment ofan account value or amount of usage parameter for use in an apparatuswherein a user pays to get a number of credits, also referred to as“units of use”. It is noted that in the Example 1 embodiment thecomputer program routine “Function_F1” becomes disabled when theparameter Use_F1 reaches a first reference value (zero in the example).

This example describes an embodiment relating to the above-mentionedprocedure. When a client has purchased e.g. ten units of use for thecomputer program routine “Function_F1” (See FIG. 4), the amountindication portion of the key may cause the parameter Use_F1 to increaseby ten units. Hence, if the parameter Use_F1 had a numerical value zero(0) before reception of the key, then the parameter Use_F1 will havenumerical value “10” (ten) after correct reception of that key. For eachexecution of the computer program routine “Function_F1” the numericalvalue of the parameter Use_F1 will be decreased by one (1). When thecomputer program routine “Function_F1” has been executed ten times sothat the parameter Use_F1 again has the numerical value zero (0), thecomputer program routine “Function_F1” will become disabled.

In order to enable the computer program routine “Function_F1”, theclient can purchase a new amount of use by means of the proceduredescribed above.

Example 2

This example describes an embodiment similar to the Example 1 embodimentabove. According to example 2, the cost per use changes after a certainlevel of use has been attained. A user can enter a number Ap of creditsor units of use for a selected function, such as function F1, by meansof entering a key. When the function F1 is executed by the apparatus 14the use of the condition monitoring function F1 will be registered bydeducting e.g. one credit for each execution. However, the method mayalso include the steps of:

-   -   reading a current value of said registered use;    -   comparing said current value with a second reference value;    -   registering use at a first rate when said current value is above        the second reference value; and    -   registering use at a second rate when said current value is        below the second reference value.

This advantageously enables a supplier to sell usage at different costs.When, according to one embodiment, a user has paid for a certain amountA_(p) of usage, the second reference value is a level indicating thatthe amount A_(p) of usage already paid for has been spent. This meansthat any further use will be usage which has not yet been paid for. Bythe feature of registering such further use at a second rate it ispossible to charge a higher cost per unit of usage for such further use.Accordingly, one execution of the function F1, when registered at thesecond rate, may result in a deduction of two credits.

FIG. 5D is an illustration of Example 2. A user, when entering a numberAp of credits or units of use for a selected function, such as functionF1, by means of entering a key for the first time, will get Ap creditsthat will be deducted at the first rate. Assuming that the user hasbought ten credits (Ap=10), the parameter Use_F1 will assume the value10. Hence, if the first rate is deduction of one credit per execution offunction F1, the parameter Use_F1 will assume the value zero (“0”) afterten executions of function F1. When the value zero (“0”) is the secondreference value, any further execution of the function F1 will beregistered at the second rate, e.g two credits per execution. Hence, theuser will advantageously still be able to use the function F1, althoughthis use has not yet been paid.

If the first reference value is −4, as illustrated in FIG. 5D, theapparatus will allow the function F1 to be executed twice before theparameter Use_F1 assumes the first reference value “minus four” (−4).When the parameter Use_F1 assumes the first reference value, thecomputer program routine “Function_F1” will become disabled.

However, next time that the user enters a key indicating a value of tencredits, the parameter Use_F1 will assume the value six, since it startsfrom a negative value:−4+10=6

The above example values of first and second reference values are merelyexamples. Of course, the number of credits, and the reference values mayhave other values without departing from the inventive concept describedherein. Additionally, the amount of use may be counted as duration oftime, the first and second reference values also being indicative oftime duration. For example a user may buy allowance to use a selectedfunction for a first total period, e.g. sixty hours, the secondreference value being indicative of a time when the charge rate is to bechanged, and the first reference value being indicative of a whendisabling occurs.

An Embodiment of a Usage Registering Procedure

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a procedureaccording to the invention.

The procedure may start with step S230, i.e. the user interface of theapparatus presents information for the purpose of allowing the operatorto select a next operation to be executed.

In step S240 the operator selects to request the apparatus to perform aCondition analysis function. This means that the operator may select oneof the functions whose use is to be registered. The operator may do thisby means of the user interface 102,106.

In a step S250 (FIG. 6) the computer program 80 (FIG. 4) will inresponse to the operator input check whether the selected operationinvolves any of the of the functions whose use is to be registered. Thefunctions whose use is to be registered includes the above discussed MCMfunctions F1-Fn. A function whose use is to be registered is referred toas a “restricted function” in the following text.

If the selection involves only unrestricted functions the apparatus 14(FIG. 2) will initiate and perform such operation (step S260) and thenreturn to step S230.

If a restricted function is selected, the computer program 80 (FIG. 4)will in response thereto check whether the selected function is enabledor disabled (Step S270).

If the selected function is disabled, the computer program 80 willpresent information to this effect (S280), and offer to proceed to anyof steps S230, step S110 or S120, described above. According to anembodiment, the program 80 will offer to proceed with step S470 in theprocedure described in FIG. 14.

If the selected function is enabled, the computer program 80 willregister the use of the selected restricted function (S290), and executethe selected restricted function (Step S300). Although FIG. 6illustrates a certain order between activities, it to be understood thatthe invention is not restricted to performing the steps in thatparticular order. In particular, the registration of use (step S290) maybe performed before or after or sometime during the execution of therestricted function.

According to a preferred embodiment the use is registered by changingthe value of a counter parameter Use_F_(k). The index k in “Use_F_(k)”indicates association to function F_(k). When the parameter Use_F_(k)has a value 100, this may indicate that one hundred units of useremains. One unit of use may correspond to one complete execution of thefunction F_(k). Hence, according to an embodiment, the counter parameterUse_F_(k) can correspond to the number of times the function F_(k) maybe used before all the allowed use has been spent. With reference toFIG. 4 step S290 may therefore include amending the parameter Use_Fk instatus field 142 for the selected function to update the informationindicating the remaining amount of use.

After successful execution and registration of use the computer program80 may update a status register or status field 142 (step S310). Suchupdate may include updating any and all variables/parameters needed fordelivering status information correctly next time step S120 is performed(See FIG. 5 and corresponding description). Hence, step S310 may includedetection of a usage parameter value Use_F_(k) indicating that a certainact is to be performed in response to the changed status. For example,if a parameter indicates that all usage for one or all restrictedfunctions has been spent, the said certain act may include disabling therestricted function or functions. Such disabling may include erasing adecrypted version 110, so that only encrypted versions remain.

FIG. 7 is a physical embodiment of an apparatus 14. The apparatus has anapparatus body; and a display 106 provided on at least one surface ofsaid apparatus body. Also provided on the body is a user input interface102 comprising a key board 103.

The apparatus body is portable; and it is shaped and adapted to enable aone-hand grip, as illustrated in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 illustrates theapparatus 14 being gripped by a hand 140 of a user. Moreover the userinput interface 102 is positioned and adapted so as to enable userinteraction by means of the user hand 140. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 9 the user input interface 102 is operable by means of a thumb 150of the user.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7. The apparatusbody is provided with fasteners 160 for a wrist strap 170. The wriststrap 170 is illustrated in FIG. 9.

The body also has a holder 180 for an elongated device. The elongateddevice may be a pen or a pointing device for user input via the display106. The display 106 may be a touch sensitive display allowing userinput by means of the pointing device. The display 106 thereforeincludes a display area which is provided with touch sensors 182, alsoreferred to as a touch screen 182, co-operating with a touch inputinterpreter. Hence, the display may comprise an LCD unit, for displayingimages and text, having integrated touch sensor means for detecting userinput via the display area.

The provision of touch sensors 182 for receiving user input via the areaof the display 106 provides for an improved user interaction. Forexample, as described above, the function F13 may include presentationof an actual condition value and a plurality of stored condition valuesso that trends may be presented on the display 106, wherein eachcondition value is associated with a time and/or date. When such a trendis displayed, for example in the form of a curve indicating the temporalprogression of the condition of the machine, the user may touch thescreen at an interesting part of the curve for the purpose of obtaininginformation associated with that part of the curve. In response to suchuser interaction the apparatus may therefore display e.g. the time anddate information associated with that part of the curve.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the apparatus 14 shown inFIG. 1 and/or FIGS. 7 and 8. The apparatus according to the FIG. 12embodiment may comprise a memory 60 having a plurality of programfunctions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn, where n is a positive integer. Each oneof the functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn may be individuallyenabled/unlocked or disabled/locked.

The memory 60 includes program functions for causing the data processingmeans 50 to perform the methods described with reference to FIGS. 5 and6. Hence, the memory 60 includes a program function 140 (FIG. 4) forregistering use of any of the functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn. The programfunction 140 may be referred to as a logger, which operates to updatethe above mentioned use parameters Use_Fk.

Moreover, the memory 60 also includes a program function 141 forchanging the state of an individual selected condition monitoringprogram function between an enabled state and a disabled state. Thestate control function 141 may operate to read the parameters Use_Fk, asdescribed in connection with step S310 in FIG. 6 above. The statecontrol function 141 may operate to disable a function Fk in response tothe outcome of a comparison between a parameter Use_Fk and a firstreference value Rk. The first reference value Rk is a reference valueindicative of a limit. The state control function is adapted to disablefunction Fk when the parameter Use_Fk reaches the first reference valueRk.

The apparatus 14 includes data processing means 50 in the form of acentral processing unit (CPU) 50A co-operating with a Field ProgrammableGate Array circuit (FPGA) 50B. According to an embodiment the centralprocessing unit 50A operates to execute the basic functions 80, such asthe program functions for causing execution of the methods describedwith reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The Field Programmable Gate Arraycircuit 50B is programmable to execute the functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fk. . . Fn. In effect, the CPU 50A, in response to the basic programfunctions 80 and user input, operates to control the operation of theFPGA 50B. The CPU 50A may, for example, control which of the functionsF1, F2, F3 . . . Fk . . . Fn are to be executed by the FieldProgrammable Gate Array circuit 50B.

The Field Programmable Gate Array circuit 50B advantageously provides acombination of flexibility and very high performance to the apparatus 14in that the functions executed by the FPGA may be software controlledand the FPGA allows for truly parallel processing. Hence, a large amountof data can be processed relatively fast by means of the FPGA. Thissolution advantageously enables simultaneous execution of two, three ormore of the condition monitoring functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fk . . . Fn.The apparatus 14 is highly versatile and flexible in that it can beupgraded to perform new functions simply by adding or changing aprogram. Hence a new or different condition monitoring function can beadded to the apparatus 14 by a simple upgrade of the programs in memory60 (FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 12). When the changed program runs onthe FPGA the new function can be executed without necessarily changingany of the hardware in the apparatus 14.

Moreover, the FPGA provides a large processing capability in relation tothe amount of space it requires. The FPGA may be mounted on a circuitboard, where it requires a small surface in relation to the largeprocessing capability it provides. According to an estimate, the amountof surface saved on a circuit board by using an FPGA exceeds 25%. Inother words, the volume of the apparatus 14 can be significantly reducedwhile the data processing capability is maintained or increased as aresult of using an FPGA circuit in the apparatus 14. Therefore thechoice of FPGA contributes to enable the provision of a portableinstrument satisfying the conflicting requirements of having a largeprocessing capability and a compact instrument which makes it easier tocarry for the user.

Additionally the FPGA has a low power consumption as compared totraditional logic circuits as well as when compared to traditional dataprocessors.

The FPGA 50B is coupled to receive digital Shock Pulse Measurement datafrom an A/D-converter 44A, which is coupled to an input 42A for ananalogue Shock Pulse Measurement signal (SPM signal). The FPGA 50B isalso coupled to receive digital temperature data from an A/D-converter44B, which is coupled to an input 42B for an analogue temperaturemeasurement signal. The FPGA 50B is also coupled to receive digitalvibration data from an A/D-converter 44C, which is coupled to an input42C for an analogue vibration measurement signal. Moreover the FPGA 50Bis coupled to receive digital data from an A/D-converter 44E, which iscoupled to an input 42E for an analogue measurement signal indicative ofa measured electric voltage or a measured electric current. The FPGA 50Bis also coupled to an input 42D for receiving binary tachometeringmeasurement signals.

The FPGA 50B is also coupled to a communications interface 54 forbi-directional communication with a device 59 on a machine 6, asdescribed in connection with FIG. 2.

Moreover the apparatus 14 includes a user interface 102. The userinterface 102 includes a display 106 having touch sensors 182 forassociating information displayed at a certain position of the displayarea with user activation of the sensor at said certain position. In theblock diagram of FIG. 12 the touch sensor 182 is illustrated as a blockseparated from the display 106. In a physical embodiment, however, thetouch sensors 182 are integrated with the display area 106, asillustrated in FIG. 7, such that the touch sensors 182 detect userinteraction with the display area 106.

The CPU 50A is coupled to a data port 16 as described in connection withFIG. 1, for enabling communication with a supplier computer 20.

The apparatus 14 also includes clock functionality 210 for providingtime and date information. This is useful for generating a time stamp,e.g. when a condition value has been produced, and the value is to bestored for future retrieval. Additionally, the time and date informationmay be used for controlling the enabling and disabling of functions F1,F2, F3 . . . Fk . . . Fn. According to an embodiment, the apparatus 14may receive, via port 16, a key comprising a code for enabling aselected function from a first predetermined date, such as e.g Mar. 1,2003, until a second date such as Apr. 15, 2003. Such a key may includea data portion indicative of the identity of the analysis apparatus, adata portion indicative of the function to be enabled, a data portionindicative of the first date and a code portion indicative of the seconddate.

Alternatively the key may cause a selected function to be enabled for acertain duration starting from a certain date.

According to an embodiment the apparatus comprises a logger operating toregister the amount of use for one, some or all condition monitoringfunctions, as described above. This may be done by counting the numberof executions of the restricted functions, as described above. Accordingto an embodiment a Reporting function is provided, among the BasicProgram Functions 80 (FIGS. 3 & 4), for causing the apparatus 14 todeliver a report about the accumulated registered use. The reportingfunction is adapted to deliver such a report with a certain periodicity.For example, the Reporting function may be set to deliver a report noless than once every 30 days. The reporting function is set to deliverthe report via the port 16 for transmission to the supplier computer 20via the communications network 18 (FIG. 1). Upon reception of thereport, the supplier computer may be adapted to cause an output to thesupplier indicative of the amount of use accumulated for that particularanalysis apparatus. Alternatively the supplier computer may be arrangedto automatically generate an invoice with a certain regularity, such asno less than once every 30 days, the invoice thereafter being deliveredto a user associated to the analysis apparatus. For this purpose theusage report may include data indicative the identity of the user. Thismay be achieved by providing unique identities for each analysisapparatus, and keeping, at the supplier, a data base 22 associating eachunique analysis apparatus identity with a corresponding client/user. Thereporting function co-operates with the timer functionality 210 suchthat if no usage report has been transmitted at the expiration of thecertain period, the timer co-operates with the State control function141 to disable one, several or all the restricted functions F1, F2, F3 .. . Fk . . . Fn. According to another embodiment the apparatus 14expects to receive a receipt from the supplier part 20, 28 after sendinga usage report. The receipt should include information, preferably in acoded manner, indicating that the usage report has been received by thesupplier part 20, 28. If no receipt has been received within a firsttime period the apparatus will provide a warning to the user by means ofthe user interface 106. If no receipt has been received within a longer,second time period the apparatus will disable one, several or all therestricted functions F1, F2, F3 . . . Fk . . . Fn.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of acondition analyzing system 2. According to the FIG. 15 embodiment theclient part 4 comprises an apparatus 14, and a separate client computer300. The client computer 300 may be connectable to a communicationsnetwork 18, e.g. via a data interface 19. The communications network 18may be the world wide internet, also known as the Internet. Thecommunications network 18 may also comprise a public switched telephonenetwork. The supplier part may be able to exchange information with thecomputer 300 via the communications network 18, e.g. in the mannersdiscussed above in connection with FIG. 1.

According to an embodiment the apparatus 14 is connectable to thecomputer 300 via port 16, for exchanging information relating to usage.According to a preferred embodiment the apparatus 14 is capable ofdelivering the above mentioned usage report to the supplier via thecomputer 300. According to an embodiment information exchange betweenthe apparatus 14 and the computer 300 may be achieved by transfer of awriteable memory device connectable to the computer 300 as well as tothe apparatus 14. Information exchanged in this manner may include theabove mentioned usage report, and/or the above mentioned receiptindicating to the apparatus 14 that the usage report has been receivedby the supplier part 20, 28. The coded information in the receipt mayalso be read by a user from the user interface of computer 300, andinput into the apparatus 14 by means of user interface 106, 182, 103.

FIG. 13A illustrates a part of memory 60 comprising a function F_(k) andan associated status field 142. The status field 142 includes a segment143 for data indicative of the state of the associated function: enabledor disabled. The status field 142 also includes a segment 144 havingdata indicative of the cost C_(fk) for executing the associated functionFk. For example, function F1 may have a cost value C_(fk)=1 chargingunit per execution, and function F3 may have a cost value C_(fk)=3charging units per execution. In another example, function F1 may have acost value C_(fk)=1 charging unit per unit of time, whereas function F3may have a cost value C_(fk)=3 charging units per unit of time. Hence,different functions may be charged at different cost rates, by providinga certain exchange rate between one charging unit and a certain monetarycurrency. For example one charging unit may correspond to x US cents,where x is a number such as 10, 15, 50, 100, 1000 or another numberdependent on what price is suitable.

An alternative embodiment for registering use, i.e. an embodiment ofstep S290 in FIG. 6, is as follows: The use maybe registered by countinga duration of execution of a restricted function, in which case theregistration of use may include a registration of a start time in a stepS290A (as indicated in FIG. 6) and the registration of a stop time in astep S290B. In such an embodiment the step S290A may be performedimmediately before the execution of the restricted function, and thestep S290B is executed immediately thereafter. According to thisembodiment the parameter Use_F_(k) may be indicative of a total durationof time the function F_(k) has been activated. FIG. 13B illustrates apart of memory 60 according to this embodiment, comprising a functionF_(k) and an associated status field 142 _(k). The parameter Use_F_(k),indicative of an accumulated total duration of active time for thefunction F_(k), is stored by the logger in a segment 220 _(k) in statusfield 142 _(k). A reference duration value is stored in segment 230_(k), and a cost factor may be stored in a segment 240 _(k). Thereference duration value is set by reception of a key, and it indicatesan amount of use that has been paid for. According to this embodimentthe state control function may be arranged to disable Function F_(k)when the parameter Use_F_(k) in segment 220 is equal to the referenceduration value in segment 230 _(k). Different charges per time unit fordifferent functions F_(k), F_(i) may be obtained by a multiplying theduration of execution of a restricted function F_(k) with a cost factorC_(k), and multiplying the duration of execution of another restrictedfunction F_(i) with a different cost factor C_(i). The cost factors forfunctions F_(k) and F_(i), respectively, may be stored in a memorysegments 240 _(k) and 240 _(i) respectively. In accordance with the sameprinciple, different charges per execution for different functionsF_(k), F_(i) may be obtained by a multiplying the number of executionsof a restricted function F_(k) with a cost factor C_(k), and multiplyingthe number of executions of another restricted function F_(i) with adifferent cost factor C_(i). In this manner the mutually differentfunctions F_(k), F_(i) can be charged at different costs per execution.

Another Embodiment of a Usage Debiting/Crediting Procedure

This embodiment differs from the Usage Debiting/Crediting Proceduredescribed with relation to FIG. 5 in that there is provided acentralized debit/credit account parameter 250 rather than separateaccounts for each function. There is a plurality of restricted functionshaving individually settable states: either disabled or enabled. Theenabling/disabling procedure is a separate procedure being performed inresponse to a state key associated with the selected function. There isa separate credit/debit key for allowing a supplier to amend the valueof the centralized debit/credit account parameter 250.

According to this embodiment the request includes informationidentifying the individual analysis apparatus, and payment information.The key to be received may cause a level parameter associated with theuse of all relevant functions in that individual analysis apparatus tobe amended. Hence, such a level parameter may be associated with all MCMfunctions.

Whenever a client operator selects to use a restricted function, theamount of use is deducted from centralized debit/credit account 250.Only those functions which are in the enabled state can be activated forexecution, provided the centralized debit/credit account parameter 250has a value above a first reference value. The first reference value isa limit value, such that if an operator attempts to execute a restrictedfunction when the value of the centralized debit/credit accountparameter 250 is equal to, or exceeds the first reference value, thenthe registering routine causes the apparatus 14 to disable allrestricted functions.

One version of this embodiment further comprises the steps of:

-   -   reading a current value of the centralized debit/credit account        parameter 250;    -   comparing said current value with a second reference value;    -   deducting credit units from the centralized debit/credit account        parameter 250 at a first rate when said current value is above        the second reference value; and    -   deducting credit units from the centralized debit/credit account        parameter 250 at a second rate when said current value is below        the second reference value.

This advantageously enables a supplier to sell usage at different costs.When, according to one embodiment, a user has paid for a certain amountA_(p) of usage, the second reference value is a level indicating thatthe whole amount A_(p) of prepaid usage has been spent. This means thatany further use will be usage which has not yet been paid for. By thefeature of registering such further use at a second rate it is possibleto charge a higher cost per unit of usage for such further use.

Moreover, the amount of use may be charged at different rates fordifferent functions by means of individual cost factors (C_(k) andC_(i), respectively) associated with each individual function, asdescribed above and as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B.

The centralized debit/credit account parameter 250 may be stored in amemory location 260 in the memory 60, as illustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a procedure fordelivering an apparatus 14, and for adding use or functionality by meansof a key from the supplier part 28. The method also relates to anembodiment of a method for generating a request for such a key or code.Such a key/code may be used for amending the centralized debit/creditaccount parameter 250 and/or for enabling a disabled function. Step S610in FIG. 14 may include the procedure according to FIG. 6, starting e.g.with step S230. It is to be understood that FIG. 14 focuses on certainmathematical or technical details that may also be used in the contextof the procedure described in connection with FIGS. 5A and 5B above. Themethod may start at the supplier 28 (FIG. 1, FIG. 15) before delivery ofthe apparatus. In a step S410 a code ki is set to a start value, whichmay be chosen to e.g. 0. Thereafter identity information is entered.This may be a number identifying an individual apparatus 14, orinformation identifying an individual condition monitoring function orboth. A new code K_(i+1) is generated in accordance with a firstmathematical algorithm in dependence of the identity information and theprevious code k_(i) (S430).

The variable K_(i) is updated to the value of the new code K_(i+1) (stepS440). The updated value K_(i) is stored in the apparatus 14, and in thesupplier database 22 (step S450). The copy stored in supplier database22 is herein referred to as K_(i22), and the copy stored in theapparatus 14 is herein referred to as K_(i14).

The apparatus is delivered to a client/user (step S460). Thereafter theuser may operate the apparatus as described in connection with FIGS.5A,5B and/or FIG. 6.

At some point in time the user may want to buy additional use allowance.The user may then cause the apparatus to generate a request U_(R) (UseRequest) for additional Use allowance (step S470). Step S470 may beattained as described in connection with steps S130, S140 in FIG. 5A.The request U_(R) is received in supplier computer 20 (step S480). Insupplier computer 20 the code K_(i22) is retrieved from database 22. Thecode K_(i22) and the content of the request U_(R) are used in apredetermined mathematical algorithm, and a checksum S_(c1) with acertain number of bits is produced. Hence checksum S_(c1) is generatedin response to code K_(i22) and the content of the request U_(R) (stepS500).

A new code K_(i+1) _(—) ₂₂ is generated in response to the old codeK_(i22) and identity information (step S510). This may be done in amanner analogous to step S430.

In step S520 the new code value K_(i+1) _(—) ₂₂ is stored in database 22as updated code new code K_(i22).

A key comprising the information in the request U_(R) and the checksumSc1 is delivered from the supplier (step S530). This may be achieved asdiscussed elsewhere in this document, e.g. as discussed in connectionwith FIG. 5A.

The key, comprising the information U_(R) and Sc1 is received inapparatus 14 (step S540). This may be achieved as discussed elsewhere inthis document, e.g. as discussed in connection with FIG. 5A (S190). Akey verification procedure is performed, as discussed in connection withconnection with FIG. 5A (S200). The key verification procedure includescalculating a checksum. In apparatus 14 the code K_(i14) is retrievedfrom memory. The code K_(i14) and the content of the request U_(R) areused in the above in step S500 mentioned predetermined mathematicalalgorithm, and a checksum S_(c2) with a certain number of bits isproduced. Hence checksum S_(c2) is generated in response to code K_(i14)and the content of the request U_(R) (step S550).

In a subsequent step S560, the generated checksum S_(c2) is compared tothe received checksum S_(c1) (step S560 and step S570). If they are notidentical an error message is displayed, as discussed in connection withS210 above in connection with FIG. 5B.

If they are identical then this means that the key is accepted, and theapparatus 14 proceeds to add the use allowance i apparatus 14 (stepS600). Thereafter the user may use the apparatus, as discussed in FIG. 6(step S610).

When additional usage allowance is desired the user may again requestadditional use, by following the above described procedure, startingwith step S470 as illustrated in FIGS. 14A, 14B, & 14C and as describedabove.

FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the apparatus 14, illustratingthe physical dimensions thereof. FIG. 11 is a side view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 10.

The display 106 has an extension xd in a first direction and anextension Yd in a orthogonal direction such that the display area is atleast 4125 mm².

The apparatus body has a first portion 190 adapted for gripping by auser. The first portion has an extension x1 in a first direction, anextension y1 in a second direction. The body has an extension z1 in athird direction, as illustrated in FIG. 11. The body also has a secondbody portion 200 having an extension x2 in a first direction, and anextension y2 in a second direction. The second portion comprises atleast a part of the display 106.

According to an embodiment:

-   -   x1 is less than 80 mm    -   y1 is less than 140 mm    -   z1 is less than 35 mm    -   x2 is less than 100 mm    -   y2 is less than 160 mm    -   xd is at least 60 mm    -   yd is at least 80 mm    -   This embodiment provides an apparatus 14 having a body volume of        less than 952 000 mm³, and the display 106 has a display area of        at least 4800 mm². Therefore the apparatus 14 is easily portable        in a handheld manner, whereas the user interface is        advantageously user friendly by means of a large display in        relation to the body volume of the apparatus.

According to another embodiment:

-   -   x1 is less than 65 mm    -   y1 is less than 145 mm    -   z1 is less than 35 mm    -   x2 is less than 80 mm    -   y2 is less than 145 mm    -   xd is at least 60 mm    -   yd is at least 80 mm    -   This embodiment provides an apparatus 14 having a body volume of        less than 735 875 mm³, and the display 106 has a display area of        at least 4800 mm². This embodiment of the apparatus 14 is even        easier to carry in a handheld manner, while providing a large        display in relation to the body volume of the apparatus.

According to yet another embodiment:

-   -   x1 is less than 60 mm    -   y1 is less than 120 mm    -   z1 is less than 30 mm    -   x2 is less than 80 mm    -   y2 is less than 140 mm    -   xd is at least 60 mm    -   yd is at least 80 mm    -   This embodiment provides an apparatus 14 having a body volume of        less than 552 000 mm³, and the display 106 has a display area of        at least 4800 mm².

According to another embodiment the apparatus 14 has a body volume ofless than 1006 250 mm², and said display has a display area of at least4800 mm². According to another embodiment the apparatus 14 has a bodyvolume of less than 800 000 mm².

1. An apparatus for analysing the condition of a machine having arotating shaft, comprising: at least one input for receiving measurementdata from a sensor for surveying a measuring point of the machine; saidmeasurement data being dependent on rotation of said shaft; dataprocessing means for processing condition data dependent on saidmeasurement data; said data processing means comprising means forperforming a plurality of condition monitoring functions (F1, F2, Fn),wherein said data processing means includes a Field Programmable GateArray circuit coupled to said at least one input.
 2. The apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein: said data processing means comprises atleast two data processing devices co-operating so as to controloperation of said condition analysis apparatus; a first one of said dataprocessing devices being said Field Programmable Gate Array circuit. 3.The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: a second one of said dataprocessing devices (50A) operates to control the operation of the FieldProgrammable Gate Array circuit.